Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are more important today than ever. If you’re ready to show off your culinary skills in your new outdoor kitchen or put in a pool for the kids, we’ve got you covered. Learn estimated project costs, easy DIYs, and helpful tips for everything from pest control to covered patios. 

Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
wooden walkout deck with flowers
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Feb 5, 2025
Feb 5, 2025
Deck replacement costs depend on materials, any structural damage you need to fix, and more. This guide explores how much it costs to replace or repair a deck.
Woman relaxing in a chair on porch.
Mitchell Grant
•
Feb 6, 2025
Feb 6, 2025
Old and run-down porch railings can be an eyesore and pose a risk of falling. Find out how much it costs to replace your worn out porch railings with new materials.
empty finished deck with double glass doors leading to home
Kelly Weimert
•
Feb 11, 2025
Feb 11, 2025
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
aerial view of second story deck of home
Taylor Freitas
•
Mar 4, 2025
Mar 4, 2025
Under-deck drainage costs can be pricey. Your final quote will depend on labor, materials, and the size of your deck. Start budgeting with this guide.
wooden deck in backyard
Deane Biermeier
•
Feb 27, 2025
Feb 27, 2025
Consult a pro if your deck or porch looks worse for wear. Here are the top deck repair questions to discuss with a contractor before getting started.
outdoor entertaining on deck
Jacqueline DeMarco
•
Feb 12, 2025
Feb 12, 2025
If you’re wondering—who can I get to refinish my deck?—you’re in the right place. Learn who you can hire to refinish your deck if you aren’t up for the DIY.
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Woman dipping toes in backyard pool
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Apr 25, 2025
How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Dive into the ins and outs of pool maintenance costs to keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for backyard fun and relaxation.
Modern home with semi-inground pool
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Apr 25, 2025
How Much Does a Semi-Inground Pool Cost to Install? [2025 Data]
Semi-inground pools offer a nice balance of convenience and affordability. Use this guide to estimate semi-inground pool costs to transform your backyard.
Boy jumping in an above ground pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Apr 24, 2025
How Much Does an Aboveground Pool Cost? [2025 Data]
Dreaming of summertime swimming? Find out aboveground pool costs, including prices for materials, fun extras, and professional installation.
Outdoor sitting area with plunge pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Apr 24, 2025
How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost? [2025 Data]
Thinking of adding a plunge pool to your backyard? Find out how much plunge pools cost, from materials to labor to add-on features.
A man removes debris from a swimming pool with a skim net.
Deane Biermeier  •  Apr 23, 2025
8 Common Pool Problems and How to Fix Them
Swimming pool issues like algae or a clogged filter can happen to anyone. Learn more about common pool problems and how to fix them quickly and easily.
A freelancer working from her Arizona room
Rachel Hoffman  •  Apr 23, 2025
What Is an Arizona Room?
Enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to the elements with an Arizona room. Learn what an Arizona room is and why it may be a great addition to your home.
A Florida room surrounded by trees
Rachel Hoffman  •  Apr 23, 2025
What Is a Florida Room?
Experience the benefits of the outdoors while being protected from bugs and the elements. Learn what a Florida room is and why it can be a great home addition.
A collage featuring an inflatable yellow pool ring, a kidney bean shaped in-ground pool, and a palm tree. Copy overlay says “$145,000 - Austin, TX”.
Nosy Neighbor  •  Apr 23, 2025
The $145,000 Pool Installation in Austin, TX
A homeowner in Austin, Texas, breaks down the real cost of his laundry room renovation project, including prices and advice.
A backyard with a swimming pool and a hot tub
Allie Ogletree  •  Apr 22, 2025
Why Is My Pool Not Holding Chlorine? 6 Causes and Solutions
Pools don’t hold chlorine if there’s organic matter, debris, or chemical imbalances. Keep reading to find out why your pool is not holding chlorine.
A young woman lounging in a wicker arm chair using an electronic tablet on a screened-in patio
Dan Simms  •  Apr 22, 2025
23 Screened-in Porch Ideas to Enjoy the Outdoors (Without the Bugs)
Get some inspiration and DIY ideas for turning your screened-in porch into a beautiful and tranquil place to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style.
Mother and her infant child enjoying the swimming pool
Allie Ogletree  •  Apr 22, 2025
Why Is My Pool Pump So Loud? 6 Common Problems and Solutions
Why is my pool pump so loud? Clogs, faulty parts, low water levels, and more can cause a noisy pump. Discover why and what you can do to fix it.
Family plays sunroom
Dan Simms  •  Apr 20, 2025
How Much Does a Sunroom Addition Cost? [2025 Data]
When you're ready to kick back with a book and a beverage but don't want to head outside, consider the cost of a sunroom. We'll break down sunroom costs below.